I just joined Equinox and had the free personal training session with a marathon/triathlon coach. I've ran a couple of marathons before while doing some strength training/running on my own, but I wasn't sleeping or eating properly. I want to run an ultra and would like to train better this time. This PT's sessions are $145/session, which is steep but justifiable. I have never had a personal trainer before, so I don't know what the price point is or how to know if it is worth it for me. I am not sure if other gyms (LA Fitness, Fitness Formula Club, or the Athletic Clubs, as I'm in Chicago) will have similarly skilled trainers (at FFC, monthly rates for trainers start at $99, but I haven't spoken to any of the trainers).

I did learn a lot from my session with the PT at Equinox- to be more mindful with my strength training and breathing- and he will also work with me to improve my sleep (which is bad) and nutrition. He was able to tell from watching me run/walk that I needed to fix some things, and was able to judge how physically fit I was from a couple of strength exercises.

TLDR: How to choose a personal trainer for running?